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F23

Whirlpool Dryer

Severity: Moderate

Source: OnlyErrorCodes.com — Every error code. One place.

Whirlpool Dryer F23 Error — Thermistor Fault

What Does This Error Mean?

F23 on a Whirlpool dryer means the inlet thermistor (temperature sensor) is shorted or out of range. The dryer cannot regulate heat safely and shuts down. The thermistor needs replacement to clear F23.

Affected Models

  • Whirlpool WED5000DW
  • Whirlpool WED7500GW
  • Whirlpool WGD8127LC
  • Whirlpool WED75HEFW
  • Whirlpool WGD9620HC

Common Causes

  • Failed inlet thermistor (NTC sensor) in the heater housing
  • Loose thermistor harness connector after vibration
  • Damaged sensor wiring (pinched against the cabinet)
  • Control board fault affecting thermistor input (rare)

How to Fix It

  1. Power off and unplug the dryer.

    Switch off and unplug from the wall. F23 may clear after a long power-off if the cause was a transient sensor read. Wait 10 minutes and restore power before testing.

  2. Confirm by running a no-heat cycle.

    Select Air Fluff or Air Dry — a no-heat option. If this cycle completes normally, the motor and tumble systems are fine, and F23 is isolated to the heating sensor.

  3. Inspect the rear vent for blockage.

    Severe vent blockage causes overheating that can damage the thermistor. Clean the dryer vent from the dryer outlet to the outside. While not a direct fix for F23, it prevents the underlying cause from recurring.

  4. Book service for thermistor replacement.

    A Whirlpool dryer thermistor costs USD 20–40 for the part. Labour adds USD 100–180. Total typical cost USD 150–250 fitted. The thermistor is at the inlet of the heater housing.

When to Call a Professional

F23 requires the rear or front panel removed to access the thermistor. The dryer must be unplugged and the thermistor and its wiring tested with a multimeter — not a routine DIY job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my Whirlpool dryer dry clothes with F23?

F23 typically prevents the dryer from running heat cycles. Air-only cycles may work. Without heat, drying time is much longer and not effective for normal laundry. Treat F23 as needing prompt repair.

What is the difference between F22 and F23 on Whirlpool dryers?

F22 is the exhaust thermistor fault (sensor at the dryer's output measuring exhaust air). F23 is the inlet thermistor fault (sensor at the heater inlet measuring heating air). Both are sensor faults but in different locations of the heat path.